### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **hypsēlós**, represented by `{{G5308}}`, denotes that which is **lofty**, both in a physical place and in character. It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in scripture. Its meaning ranges from describing literal high places to things that are figuratively high or highly esteemed.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G5308}}` frequently refers to literal high locations. The devil takes Jesus to an "exceeding **high** mountain" to tempt him [[Matthew 4:8]], and Jesus takes his disciples to a "**high** mountain" for the Transfiguration ([[Matthew 17:1]], [[Mark 9:2]]). John is carried to a "great and **high** mountain" to see the new Jerusalem [[Revelation 21:10]]. Figuratively, the term is used as a warning in [[Romans 12:16]], which instructs believers to "Mind not **high** things." It also describes the status of Christ, who as a high priest is "made **higher** than the heavens" [[Hebrews 7:26]] and who sat down at the right hand of the "Majesty on **high**" [[Hebrews 1:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of height and status:
* `{{G3735}}` **óros** (a mountain): This word is frequently modified by `{{G5308}}` to denote places of divine revelation or spiritual testing, as seen in the temptation of Christ [[Luke 4:5]] and the Transfiguration [[Mark 9:2]].
* `{{G5011}}` **tapeinós** (humble, of low degree): This term stands in direct contrast to `{{G5308}}`. In [[Romans 12:16]], believers are told not to mind "high things" but to "condescend to men of low estate."
* `{{G5312}}` **hypsóō** (exalt, lift up): This verb is the action form related to the adjective `{{G5308}}`. It is used to describe God exalting the humble [[Luke 1:52]] and is a reminder that whoever exalts himself will be humbled.
* `{{G3772}}` **ouranós** (heaven): Christ's status as high priest is described as being made "**higher** than the heavens" [[Hebrews 7:26]], using `{{G5308}}` to establish his supremacy over the created celestial realm.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5308}}` is significant, highlighting a contrast between divine and worldly values.
* **Divine Exaltation:** The word is used to describe God's supreme position and power. Christ sits with the "Majesty on **high**" [[Hebrews 1:3]], and God's deliverance of Israel was accomplished with a "**high** arm" [[Acts 13:17]].
* **Christ's Supremacy:** Christ's role as high priest is defined by his being "**higher** than the heavens" [[Hebrews 7:26]], establishing his unique, sinless, and eternally separate status.
* **Warning Against Pride:** The term is used to caution against worldly ambition. That which is "**highly esteemed** among men is abomination in the sight of God" [[Luke 16:15]], and believers are explicitly told not to mind "**high** things" [[Romans 12:16]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5308}}` moves from the literal to the metaphorical to convey important spiritual truths. It describes physical mountains as places of profound spiritual encounters while also serving as a key term for understanding status. It contrasts the acceptable loftiness of God and Christ with the dangerous, prideful ambition of humanity, ultimately teaching that true exaltation comes not from seeking "high things" but from humility before God.
TRV